Old House in Michigan
Nestled in the heart of Michigan stands a remarkable reminder of the state’s rich architectural past — an old house in Michigan that will soon be featured in the summer edition of This Old House magazine under the special section Save This Old House.
This historic beauty captures the spirit of a bygone era, blending intricate craftsmanship with a layout that reflects the grand lifestyle of the early 20th century.
The home immediately draws attention with its majestic architecture and exquisite details. Inside, visitors are greeted by a collection of original features that have stood the test of time.
One of the most captivating elements is the stained glass window, a masterpiece of color and design that bathes the interior in a soft, timeless glow.
Throughout the home, beveled glass windows sparkle in several rooms, casting elegant patterns of light across the rich woodwork and detailed trim.
Every corner tells a story — from the carved banisters to the high ceilings and two fireplaces, each adorned with beautiful side pieces that frame their mantels like works of art.
Spanning over 3,500 square feet, the residence offers an abundance of space across its five bedrooms and four full bathrooms.
The layout was designed for comfort and function, yet still maintains an air of sophistication. The second level features a charming sleeping porch, perfect for warm Michigan summers when evening breezes drift through open windows.
A walk-up attic provides additional storage or the potential for creative renovation — perhaps an artist’s studio or a private library overlooking the treetops.
Interestingly, the second floor also includes an additional kitchen, which could easily be transformed back into a bedroom or guest suite, depending on one’s vision. This flexibility allows future homeowners to adapt the home to their lifestyle while preserving its historic integrity.
Though the house exudes timeless beauty, it is a project for those who appreciate restoration and craftsmanship.
Some renovation work began in 2018, including new shingles and roof decking, ensuring protection from Michigan’s varied weather.
Gutters were replaced, and the side porch was rebuilt, giving new life to parts of the exterior. However, as with many grand historic homes, this one still requires further attention.
The property is being offered through the Calhoun County Land Bank’s Transform This Home Program, an initiative that encourages preservation-minded buyers to restore historic homes and breathe new life into Michigan’s neighborhoods.
Under this program, the buyer agrees to rehabilitate the home within a specified time frame, ensuring that the restoration process aligns with community development goals.
While this old house in Michigan still needs building, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical repairs, its structure remains full of potential.
The new owner will need to complete additional inspections before obtaining an occupancy permit, as the property is currently being offered As-Is. Yet for those with vision, patience, and a love of history, this home presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Imagine walking through the front door after the restoration is complete — sunlight filtering through the stained glass, the wood floors gleaming once more, and the scent of fresh polish mingling with echoes of the past. Each room would tell its own story, and every restoration choice would become part of the home’s new chapter.
Old houses like this one are more than just architectural relics; they are living pieces of Michigan’s history. They remind us of a time when homes were built with care, adorned with artistry, and designed to endure.
Restoring such a home isn’t merely about fixing walls or updating systems — it’s about preserving a legacy, keeping craftsmanship alive, and connecting future generations to the stories embedded in its structure.
For admirers of history and design, this old house in Michigan offers more than just a renovation project — it offers a journey through time. With its grand spaces, handcrafted details, and undeniable charm, it stands as both a challenge and an invitation: to revive, restore, and reimagine what once was.
In every sense, this house is waiting for someone who can see beyond the repairs to the enduring beauty beneath — someone ready to make it shine again as one of Michigan’s timeless treasures.
